What kinds of things do you guys use as distractions? Thanks 
8 Likes
Meditation, gym, walking, self care, coming on here, going out and even just grabbing a coffee/tea. Even starting up a new hobbie. Literally anything that sidetracks you in your thoughts really!
8 Likes
This is a great topic! While pretty specific to each person, I think it’s good to hear suggestions and options, you never know what will sound appealing at any given time!
My go to distractions (from urges to use or from negative intrusive thoughts) are reading, painting, and going for walks with my dogs!
Reading transports me from this world to another, so stressors and urges fade into the background when I dive into a good story! Imagination is a powerful tool that can be honed to provide solace from a sometimes dark-feeling world!
Painting sort of blanks my thoughts, focusing on lines and shades instead of drinking or using! Creativity is a great source of joy for me, maybe it can be for you too!
Walking with my dogs keeps me focused on their enjoyment and safety, stopping any other thought from penetrating my already busy brain! And walking is a good source of exercise!
What are your plans for distractions?
7 Likes
Ive Loads guitar ,ps4, and of course my garden and my world travels just back from south America going to South Africa end of Jan via Dubia and Capetown for three days then cruise to Gambia, and Namibia and Senegal and James town end up in Gran Canaria for three days now going Iceland end of March for couple of days , Toronto three days, Niagra falls couple days, and Train to the big Apple for a four days things i can do now im sober
9 Likes
I take my dog on walks, hikes, and bike rides. A lot of self love and meditation.
4 Likes
Paint by number, puzzles, netflix, coffee dates, aa meetings, groupon experiences get too busy. Plan your day. Walks, runs, weightlifting. Therapy. Self help videos on youtube. Meditation on the free Insight Timer app
3 Likes
there are many threads on hobbies in general and a ton of specific threads on topics like music, gardening, gym/sorts of sports, crafting, meditation … have a good read around, you’ll find a lot of inspiration!
3 Likes
Hey, friends!
A few days ago, I asked the question of what are good distractions. Great answers (thank you!!). I just hooked up my PlayStation 4. I think that will work OUTSTANDING!! Haven’t played video games 
in YEARS. But beats the heck out of substances
4 Likes
Whatever works especially in the beginning.. Staying busy with positive activities is really important.. but also thanks for the idea .. I never even thought about getting a video game console.. My favorite back in the day was crash bandicoot warped on PlayStation!!
I recently started building legos .. Actually today I bought a sonic the hedge hog car and figure to build..
There is so many cool things to do instead of drink or use!! Whatever works and keeps you busy
4 Likes
Awesome, dude! I’m glad that sparks some ideas. You’re absolutely right! There’s always something better to do.
1 Like
Great question and ideas! As this is an follow-up to replies, and to keep the forum tidy, I have moved the posts to here.
2 Likes
Thanks for helping keep this place organized. Love this place and so grateful for all the mods helping things run smoothly and keeping things safe
2 Likes